‘A true honor’: Former WSU head football coach Jake Dickert shares goodbye message to Coug Nation
Jake Dickert is an emerging leader in college football, currently serving as the head coach of the Washington State Cougars. His journey to this position has been marked by dedication, hard work, and a deep understanding of the game. Known for his defensive acumen, Dickert has built a reputation as a coach who can craft effective game plans and develop players to succeed on both sides of the ball.
Born on March 22, 1983, in the United States, Jake Dickert’s football career began at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where he played as a safety. He later transitioned into coaching, starting his career at his alma mater as a defensive assistant. Dickert’s early coaching years were shaped by his work with defensive units, which laid the foundation for his career path as a defensive coordinator. His leadership was quickly recognized, and he climbed the coaching ranks, making stops at several notable institutions.
Dickert’s first major role came as a defensive coordinator at North Dakota, where he earned a reputation for his ability to develop strong, disciplined defenses. His success at North Dakota did not go unnoticed, and he moved on to Wyoming, where he served as the defensive coordinator under head coach Craig Bohl. At Wyoming, Dickert helped guide the defense to become one of the best in the Mountain West Conference. His time at Wyoming was a crucial phase in his career, as he honed his skills in organizing defensive schemes and leadership, which would later prove invaluable when he took on even larger responsibilities.
In 2020, Dickert arrived at Washington State University as the defensive coordinator under then-head coach Nick Rolovich. During his tenure as the defensive coordinator, Dickert continued to showcase his ability to build and lead aggressive, high-energy defenses. Washington State’s defense saw significant improvement, which helped establish Dickert as one of the top defensive minds in college football. His success was built on creating a tough, physical defense while also fostering a competitive atmosphere within the program.
In 2021, following the mid-season firing of Rolovich, Dickert was named the interim head coach. He inherited a team that was going through a tumultuous period, yet he was able to keep the team focused and competitive. His leadership during the 2021 season earned him widespread respect from players, staff, and fans alike. Under Dickert’s guidance, Washington State finished strong, earning a bowl game appearance. His success in leading the team during such a challenging period made him the natural choice to become the permanent head coach.
As head coach, Dickert has continued to focus on defense as a hallmark of his program. His leadership philosophy emphasizes hard work, accountability, and the importance of building a culture of discipline. Dickert’s approach is not only about developing talented players but also about instilling a strong mental toughness and a sense of pride in representing Washington State.
Off the field, Dickert is known for his passion and dedication to his players. He believes in building personal relationships with each member of the team, understanding that trust and mutual respect are key components of a successful program. Under his guidance, Washington State has become a team that is known for its resilience and toughness, fighting hard in the competitive Pac-12 Conference.
As of 2024, Jake Dickert is working to continue building Washington State into a perennial contender in college football. With a strong foundation in defense, an emphasis on player development, and a commitment to hard work, Dickert’s future as a head coach looks promising, and he is well on his way to establishing himself as one of the rising stars in the coaching world.
